THE nation’s concern with the environment is no flight of fancy as children proved when they had owls brought into their school.

The future of British owls is under threat and conservation groups are emphasising the importance of ensuring their survival.

Last Friday a team of handlers took 10 owls to Claremont Fan Court School in Esher to give a presentation about the birds’ lives, including information on flight, prey and habitat. Afterwards, the children watched the birds fly around the school grounds before sketching the owls up close and having their picture taken with them.

Although the whole school had the opportunity to see the owls, the school arranged the day for Year 6 pupils who recently completed their SATs exams and are now using their scientific knowledge to improve the environment.

Year 6 has been divided into three groups, with each creating an environmentally friendly product — a bird table, reusable bags and recycled paper.

Teacher Tansy Insall-Reid said the science projects were organised to tie in with Claremont’s standing as an eco-school. It is currently working towards a silver medal by reducing its carbon footprint.

She said: “The children are looking at their own environment in different ways; how can they improve it, how can they make sure that we are looking after it?

“The owl day saw them apply their SATs science knowledge to the local habitat.

“Although the owls are hand-reared the handlers are not encouraging children to keep them as pets.

“It’s the complete opposite. They are trying to teach the children about the importance of conservation. There’s a threat to owls in the British Isles and it’s important that they continue to survive.”